Design · National 5
Graphics
6 cards · 4 quiz · 1 exam
Design & Manufacture · National 5 · mrkellydt.co.uk
What you're learning in this topic
Learning intention WALT
We are learning about graphics, specifically to:
understand
- how graphics are used to generate, explore, refine and communicate ideas
- the advantages of manual and computer-generated graphics
- what a working drawing shows
be able to
- choose a suitable graphic for a purpose: orthographic, sectional, exploded, pictorial, working drawing, render
Success criteria WILF
- I can explain how graphics are used to generate, explore, refine and communicate ideas
- I can choose a suitable graphic for a purpose: orthographic, sectional, exploded, pictorial, working drawing, render
- I can describe the advantages of manual and computer-generated graphics
- I can describe what a working drawing shows
Graphics through the design process
Sketches are the quickest way to communicate design work. The type and quality of graphic depends on the stage and on who will see it.
| Graphic | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Annotated sketches | Quickly record and develop ideas |
| Orthographic sketch/drawing | Show dimensions and proportions |
| Isometric, oblique, perspective | 3D view to visualise an idea or share with non-experts |
| Sectional view | Show interior detail |
| Exploded view | Show how components fit together |
| Scale drawing | Check size, proportion and fit |
| Working drawing | Give the manufacturer every view, dimension and detail needed |
| Rendered illustration / CAD render | Communicate the final proposal to the client |
Manual vs computer-generated graphics
| Manual | Computer-generated |
|---|---|
| Fast and free for early exploration Little investment or training | Many drawing types from one model Easy to edit without redrawing Libraries of standard parts Realistic renders Links to laser cutter, 3D printer, CNC Easy to send to the team |
Exam link: benefits of computer-generated graphics
- Shows colour, texture and proportion realistically.
- Easy to modify without redrawing.
- Can be shared electronically with the client or team.
- Can be used for marketing before the product exists.
- Can be viewed from any angle.
- The file can be sent to CAM or 3D printing.
"See it in 3D" on its own, or unqualified "quick", "easy" or "accurate", is not awarded.
Key terms
| Sectional view | Shows the interior detail of a product. |
|---|---|
| Orthographic drawing | Shows dimensions and proportions in 2D views (elevation, end elevation, plan). |
| Exploded view | Shows how components fit together. |
| Working drawing | Gives the manufacturer all views, dimensions and technical details needed. |
| Advantage of manual sketching | Quick and free early on; no training or investment. |
| Advantage of CAD graphics | Easy to edit; many drawings from one model; links to CAM. |
Quick check
1. Which graphic best shows the inside of a product?
- Exploded view
- Mood board
- One-point perspective
- Sectional view
Show answer
D: Sectional view. A section cuts through to reveal interior detail.
2. Which graphic communicates dimensions most clearly?
- Orthographic drawing
- Rendered illustration
- Mood board
- Lifestyle board
Show answer
A: Orthographic drawing. Orthographic views are designed to be dimensioned.
3. Why would a designer show a client a rendered 3D illustration rather than an orthographic drawing?
- It includes all the dimensions needed
- Non-experts find it easier to understand
- It is quicker to produce than a sketch
- It is needed to set up the CNC machine
Show answer
B: Non-experts find it easier to understand. Realistic 3D views are easier for non-specialists to read.
4. Which is an advantage of CAD over manual drawing?
- No training needed
- Cheaper equipment
- Changes can be made without redrawing
- Better at very rough early ideas
Show answer
C: Changes can be made without redrawing. Editing a model updates every view.
Exam-style questions
1. Describe two benefits of CAD drawings compared with manual drawings. (2 marks)
Show marking guidance
- Easier and quicker to edit if the client wants changes (1)
- More realistic, so easier for non-experts to understand (1)
- Can be sent electronically/linked to CAM (1)
Printable worksheet
An I do, we do, you do worksheet for this topic, with a separate answer sheet.